Question: I have a spring-fed stream and would like to grow watercress. Will it grow in Massachusetts, where can I get some, and how is it planted? GR, Mass Answer: Watercress grows well in Massachusetts and is easy to grow under conditions you mention. Buy a bunch in the market or collect it from the […]

Question: Where can I get information on grafting tree peonies? FG, OR Answer: I believe you can get the information you desire on grafting tree peonies from the American Peony Society… search the web for contact information.

Question: Tell me, will the Almey Flowering Crab, planted where it would get the morning sun for two hours and full evening sun, live and thrive in the suburbs of Philadelphia? When is the best time to plant it? AB, PA Answer: I would expect any one of this fine group of flowering trees to […]

Question: In grading around our new house, it will be necessary to cover the roots of a big tree with 2 feet of soil. Will this kill the tree? Answer: Whether this would be safe depends on the tree involved. Some tap rooted trees like walnuts might tolerate this very well, but shallow-rooted species like […]

Question: We would like to make a study of Asparagus plumosus seed. What books or magazines would you suggest? AS, FL Answer: I do not know of any publications on the subject and suggest that you get in touch with your State Extension Service in Gainesville for information on raising Asparagus plumosus.

Question: How can I raise gerberas from seed? AG, Chattanooga, Tenn. Answer: Gerbera seeds are likely to be uncertain in germination. Sow in a mixture of equal parts loam, leafmold and sand. Barely cover the seed. After sown, cover with a piece of glass and shade from sun. Keep in a temperature of about 60-65 […]

Question: What can be done during the growing season to keep closely clustered little bugs away from my chrysanthemus at blooming time? VP, Ohio. Answer: As a rule aphids do not show up on chrysanthemums until late in summer but keep a sharp eye on the plants and spray with any contact insecticide (such as […]

Question: May tulip and daffodil bulbs not planted last fall still be saved so that they flower this spring? JP, Watertown, NY Answer: It is doubtful if your tulip and daffodil bulbs are worth keeping. But, if they are still plump, you might plant them outside as soon as possible. This is done not for […]

Question: My tuberous begonias planted on the north side of the house failed to flower. Why? Answer: They probably did not receive enough sun. Tuberous begonias need at least some filtered sunshine to bloom. They will thrive where they receive morning sun until about 9:00 A.M., filtered sun until 4:00 or 5:00 pm, and direct […]

Question: Would fertilizers, which have a burning effect when applied too closely to leaves and stems, have any harmful effect if placed very close to bulbs just starting to sprout in early spring? Will full sun cause flower buds of tuberous begonias to fall before opening? EC, Chicago, IL Answer: As long as the fertilizer […]